OPTIMIZATION OF INVESTMENT CASTING PARAMETERS OF A443 ALLUMINIUM ALLOY WITH ADDING TRACE ELEMENTS USING TAGUCHI METHOD

In the present investigation A443 aluminium alloy has been taken to make the castings. A443 alloy comprises Silicon (4.5-6.0%), Copper (0.6%), Magnesium (0.5%), Zinc (0.5%), Manganese (0.5%) and aluminium as the balance. It is a high strength and low weight alloy used in aerospace engineering application. Owing to their good corrosion properties, high specific strength and low costs for shape forming, cast aluminium alloys are wised used in engineering applications, such as engines for vehicles, helicopters and fan hubs, etc. Due to its above features it could also be used in making engine blocks and other automotive parts. Reduce the shrinkage defects from the casting a trace element is added in the A443 aluminium alloy and optimize investment casting parameter using Taguchi method.